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Education Studies (Primary) (T29)

Course details
  • CertHE
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  • Distance learning
  • October 2026
  • Undergraduate
Course location
Distance Learning
Awarded by:
The Open University

Course summary

Thinking about pursuing a career in education or becoming a primary school teacher? This Certificate of Higher Education will give you a strong foundation for further study relevant to a range of roles within education. You’ll engage with key themes in the education of children aged 3 to 12 and develop the knowledge and skills needed to work collaboratively and equitably in a variety of settings. You’ll also explore childhood from multiple perspectives, deepening your understanding of children’s lives, learning and development. By completing this qualification, you’ll be well prepared for future study or practice in education and related fields.

Key features of the course

  • Offers a practice-focused qualification suitable for people working, volunteering or seeking to work in schools or in the wider education sector

  • Covers the key themes relating to primary education and the curriculum areas of English, mathematics and science

  • Explores the emotional, physical, social and cultural development of children

  • Lays sound foundations for further study relevant to careers in teaching and other roles within education

  • Designed to fit around work commitments with no exams and dedicated time to prepare assessments

Modules

This education studies certificate has one stage, comprising 120 credits.

You’ll study two 60-credit modules that explore approaches to learning and teaching, inclusive education, play and creativity, learning in English, maths and science, the role of ICT and home-school collaboration. You’ll also examine broader perspectives on the lives of children and young people, including their emotional, physical, intellectual, social and cultural development.

How to apply

To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.

Application codes

Institution code:
O11
Campus name:
Distance Learning
Campus Code:
D

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

Open days

Entry requirements

There are no qualification requirements for this course.

You do not need to be employed in a primary school in order to study this qualification. However if you're not working in a school on a regular basis you are advised to negotiate opportunities to spend some time in a formal educational setting for children aged 3-12 (this can be in a voluntary capacity) to observe teaching and learning, and gain exposure to a practice context. We suggest that you spend 10 days in school when studying for this certificate. It is your responsibility – not the OU’s – to ensure that you obtain the necessary Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or equivalent for the setting and country in which you’re working. You should contact the relevant agency in your country for more information if you are in any doubt about your eligibility or to find out more.

Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.

Historical entry grades data

This section shows the range of grades that students who received offers were previously accepted on to this course with (learn more).

It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place.

Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

This course may have Historical entry grades data available, please select a course option to view.

Course options

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Per year tuition fees

LocationFeeYear

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

Fee information is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually.

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